Speeding, distracted driving top concern for parents in school zones

With kids set to return to school in the coming weeks, people are reminded to be cautious when passing through school and playground zones.

In May, Saskatchewan parents expressed concern for a number of regular hazardous driving behaviours they witness in school zones. According to a CAA Saskatchewan survey, topping the list was speeding, followed closely by distracted driving.

“I think it is a blanket concern across the province,” Christine Niemcyzk with CAA Saskatchewan said.

As playgrounds and schools become greater hubs of activity where kids are out playing after school, during school breaks and on the weekends, she said it “is a general reminder, when you are in a school zone, or playground area where there is children, take it slow.”

Though injury can still occur if struck by a vehicle going 30 kilometres per hour, the chance of major injury or death is greatly increased in tandem with speed.

Niemcyzk urged parents to put the mobile phone down and to ask the same of their children when they are walking or biking to school to train them to be alert and attentive to the task at hand.

As getting the kids ready and off to school can be hectic, she suggested parents plan the day ahead or make lunches the night before to ease some morning stress.

But for those who do see regular occurrences of poor driving habits in school zones, Niemcyzk said parents or staff should speak with local school authorities to determine the best remedy.

“If it is behaviour that is repeating, you can work with local community partners to make that stop,” she said.